Home About AllHealth Website Sitemap Contact Us
All Health 
You are here: Home > Test Finder > General > creatinine-urine

 

creatinine-urine

Alternative Names 
urine creatinine - spot collection

Definition
This test measures the amount of creatinine in the urine. Creatinine is produced in the muscles and filtered by the kidneys. The amount of creatinine in the urine, then, is an indication of kidney function. It is most often used to check kidney function.

Who is a candidate for the test? 
This test may also be ordered to check a person's intake of fluid or high protein foods such as meat. It also detects muscle damage or degeneration, nerve damage from diabetes mellitus, or other disorders of the endocrine system. It provides clues about damage or blockages within the kidney, bladder or other parts of the urinary system.

How is the test performed? 
Either a 24-hour urine sample or a "spot" sample is required.

For a spot collection, the person starts urinating and collects a small sample in a container. The container is sealed and given to the doctor.

For a 24-hour urine sample, the person should follow the specific instructions of the doctor. In general, this schedule is followed:
  • Day 1: The person urinates upon arising as usual. The person does not collect that sample. Then, the individual collects all urine produced for the next 24 hours in a special container.
  • Day 2: First thing in the morning, the person urinates into the container again. Then the individual covers it and refrigerates it the sample can be brought to the doctor.
What is involved in preparation for the test? 
The person should request specific instructions from the doctor.

What do the test results mean? 
Normal values for creatinine in urine are:
  • 24-hour sample, 7 - 17 mmols/24 hours (millimoles per 24 hours)
Abnormal creatinine levels may indicate the following:
  • acromegaly, or overgrowth of bone caused by too much human growth hormone (HGH)
  • acute tubular necrosis, or failure of the kidney that follows damage to its filtering tubes
  • dehydration, or inadequate fluid intake
  • diabetic nephropathy, or damage to the small blood vessels of the kidney caused by diabetes mellitus
  • glomerulonephritis, or inflammation and scarring in the filtering system of the kidneys
  • muscular dystrophy, or a congenital disorder causing muscle wasting
  • pyelonephritis, or a bacterial infection of the kidneys
  • kidney failure
  • an obstruction of the kidneys, bladder, or tubes
  • myasthenia gravis, or a nervous system disorder that causes progressive muscle weakness and fatigue
  • a diet high in meat
Author: 
Reviewer: eknowhow Medical Review Panel
Editor: Dr John Hearne
Last Updated: 19/05/2005
Contributors
Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
 


This website and article is not a substitute for independent professional advice. Nothing contained in this website is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.  All Health and any associated parties do not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information.

 

Back Email a Friend View Printable Version Bookmark This Page

 

eknowhow | The World's Best Websites
    Privacy Policy and Disclaimer